Diagnosis and treatment of movement system impairment syndromes

Abstract

Background: Diagnoses and treatments based on movement system impairment syndromes were developed to guide physical therapy treatment.

Objectives: This masterclass aims to describe the concepts on that are the basis of the syndromes and treatment and to provide the current research on movement system impairment syndromes.

Results: The conceptual basis of the movement system impairment syndromes is that sustained alignment in a non-ideal position and repeated movements in a specific direction are thought to be associated with several musculoskeletal conditions. Classification into movement system impairment syndromes and treatment has been described for all body regions. The classification involves interpreting data from standardized tests of alignments and movements. Treatment is based on correcting the impaired alignment and movement patterns as well as correcting the tissue adaptations associated with the impaired alignment and movement patterns. The reliability and validity of movement system impairment syndromes have been partially tested. Although several case reports involving treatment using the movement system impairment syndromes concept have been published, efficacy of treatment based on movement system impairment syndromes has not been tested in randomized controlled trials, except in people with chronic low back pain.

Keywords: Classification; Impairment; Movement system; Musculoskeletal; Pain; Rehabilitation.

Figure 1

Graphic of the human movement system. Developed by the faculty of the Program in Physical Therapy, Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis.

Figure 2

The kinesiopathologic model of the movement system.